Air Drying Firewood

Air drying firewood is a process of reducing the moisture content of the wood by exposing it to the sun and air. It can take several months or even years, depending on the type and size of the wood, the climate, and how the wood is stacked. Here are some steps to air dry firewood effectively:

• Cut and split the wood as soon as possible after harvesting. This will expose more surface area of the wood and allow moisture to escape faster. The ideal size for firewood is about 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter and 16 inches (40 cm) in length.

• Stack the wood in a sunny and well-ventilated area. Avoid stacking the wood directly on the ground, as it will absorb moisture from the soil. Use pallets, bricks, or concrete blocks to elevate the wood and prevent rotting. Leave some space between each row of wood to allow air circulation. You can also cover the top of the stack with a tarp or a sheet of metal to protect it from rain or snow, but make sure to leave the sides open.

• Check the wood periodically for signs of dryness. You can use a moisture meter to measure the moisture content of the wood, or you can look for cracks in the end grain, which indicate that the wood has shrunk and dried. The ideal moisture content for firewood is between 15% and 20%. Depending on the conditions, it can take from 6 months to 2 years to reach this level.

• Store the dry wood in a sheltered place until you are ready to use it. You can move the dry wood to a shed, a garage, or a covered porch, where it will be protected from rain and snow. Make sure to keep some space between the wood and the walls to prevent mold growth¹². You can also label the wood with the date of drying, so you know how old it is.

Air drying firewood is a natural and economical way to prepare your wood for burning. It may take some time and effort, but it will reward you with a cleaner, hotter, and more efficient fire